Black Beauty (1877)

This was the first book I ever owned. I was a little girl, and it was one I'd selected to take out from the library, and it was already a bit fragile (more than 60 years ago). The librarian looked at it, and said that, if it was okay with my mother, they would just *give* me the book, and I wouldn't have to bring it back. This ruined me forever for libraries, because mostly, they want the books back after you've read them.

I read this multiple times (as a child), and have never quit loving it. Children's book, or not, it's well written, with a timeless and sweet story. It's a good book for an older child, since there are situations that might be upsetting for a very young one. ( )

This is a pretty solid chapter book, detailing the life of a horse. Starts with his younger days as a colt, and then moving on later in his life when he was pulling cabs in downtown London. ( )

Summary: A horse is born and when he is old enough he is sent to Squire Garden where he is happy and spends some of his happiest times. Due to illness and Mr. Gordon having to move and sell his horses. Black Beauty has a few owners that neglected and treated Beauty poorly. He then gets a new owner Mr. Barker and is happy. Even though Beauty must work hard the barker family grows on him. Until once again he has to be sold to other owners that nearly work Beauty to death. He is finally rehabilitated by a farmer and his grandson. Then sold to a owner who recognizes him as Mr. Gordons black beauty. There Beauty finally has a happy ending.

Personal Reaction: To me the book was sad in some of the points of the story. It was nice to see a happy ending, but I love animals dearly. The terrible points in the story were sad. If someone is looking into buying a horse and they do not know what work and love they need to put into it; they should read this book.

Classroom Extension Ideas:
1. Would be a good book to have older students to read the book and right an essay about how they felt about the book.
2. This would be a good book to read if a teacher is doing a lesson over horses.

Beautiful story of a young foal becoming a great strong horse. The content has great description. Definitely for ages 7 and up. The climax is phenomenal which keeps you hooked. ( )

3.5 stars
This is one of those books that makes you think. Anyone who wants a pet or who wants to learn about horses should really read it. It's from the horse's POV and tells things humans don't think about. Also, it has lots of great life lessons. It's a good read for all ages, but I recommend it more for kids and teens. I really liked it a lot, but it was pretty depressing for me. I felt very sorry for the horses. ( )